PDF417 Barcode Generator

Generate PDF417 2D barcodes online for free. Create high-density barcodes used in ID cards, driver's licenses, shipping labels, and airline boarding passes.

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25 characters Max: ~1,800 alphanumeric

Barcode Settings

Small3xLarge
Thin15Thick
Generated Barcode

Your PDF417 barcode will appear here

Enter data and click Generate

Quick Presets

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What is PDF417 Barcode?

PDF417 is a powerful stacked linear barcode format capable of encoding large amounts of data in a compact two-dimensional symbol. The name derives from its structure: each pattern consists of 4 bars and spaces in a pattern that is 17 units long, hence "PDF417" (Portable Data File with 4 bars, 17 units).

Unlike traditional 1D barcodes that can only hold 20-30 characters, PDF417 can encode up to 1,850 alphanumeric characters, 2,710 numeric digits, or 1,108 bytes of binary data. This high capacity, combined with built-in error correction, makes it the barcode of choice for applications requiring reliable data storage.

You'll encounter PDF417 barcodes daily on driver's licenses, state IDs, airline boarding passes, shipping labels, and government documents worldwide. Our advanced generator creates fully customizable, scanner-ready PDF417 barcodes instantly.

How to Use PDF417 Barcode Generator

  1. Enter your data - Type or paste the text, numbers, or encoded data you want to store in the barcode.
  2. Customize settings - Adjust columns, rows, error correction level, and size to match your needs.
  3. Choose colors - Pick custom bar and background colors, or use transparent backgrounds for overlays.
  4. Apply presets - Use quick presets for common use cases like ID cards, shipping labels, or high-resolution printing.
  5. Generate - Click the Generate button to create your barcode instantly.
  6. Download or share - Export as PNG for general use or SVG for print-quality vector graphics.

Pro tip: Use the "High-Res Print" preset for barcodes that will be printed on professional documents or labels.

PDF417 Barcode Settings Explained

Understanding the settings helps you create optimal barcodes:

  • Columns - Controls barcode width. More columns = wider but shorter barcode. Auto calculates the best balance.
  • Rows - Controls barcode height. More rows = taller but narrower barcode. Usually left on Auto.
  • Error Correction - Determines how much damage the barcode can sustain while remaining readable. Level 0-2 for clean environments, 4-5 for labels, 6-8 for harsh conditions.
  • Scale - Multiplier for barcode size. Higher values create larger, easier-to-scan barcodes.
  • Row Height - Thickness of each row. Thicker rows are more reliable but take more space.
  • Colors - Custom colors for design integration. Keep high contrast for reliable scanning.
  • Transparent - Removes background for overlay use in designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

PDF417 is a stacked linear (2D) barcode that's rectangular, while QR codes are square matrix codes. PDF417 excels at encoding large amounts of text data and is the standard for ID documents and transportation. QR codes are better for URLs and mobile scanning due to their omnidirectional reading. PDF417 is read with a linear sweep, QR from any angle.

PDF417 can encode up to 1,850 alphanumeric characters, 2,710 numeric digits, or 1,108 bytes of binary data. The actual capacity depends on your error correction level and character types. Higher error correction reduces capacity but increases reliability.

Use Auto for most cases. For clean indoor environments, levels 0-2 are sufficient. For shipping labels exposed to handling, use levels 3-4. For outdoor or industrial applications where damage is likely, use levels 5-8. Higher levels create larger barcodes but survive more damage.

Yes, most modern smartphones can scan PDF417 barcodes using the built-in camera app or free barcode scanner apps. iOS Camera, Google Lens, and dedicated apps like Scandit or Barcode Scanner all support PDF417 format.

PNG is a raster image at the generated resolution - good for screens, web use, and standard printing. SVG is a vector format that can scale infinitely without quality loss - ideal for professional printing, large format output, and integration into design software like Adobe Illustrator.

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